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Ophthalmodynamometry: a reliable method for measuring intracranial pressure
M Motschmann1, C Müller, J Kuchenbecker
1Department of Ophthalmology, Ohrekreis-Klinikum, Haldensleben, Germany.
Strabismus
|March 23, 2001
Summary
Ophthalmodynamometry can measure central retinal vein pressure, which correlates linearly with intracranial pressure (ICP). This non-invasive method offers a practical way to assess ICP in conditions like hydrocephalus and after head injury.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Medical Physiology
Background:
- Intracranial pressure (ICP) normally equals or exceeds central retinal vein pressure.
- The optic nerve sheath is a key site where ICP influences retinal venous pressure.
- Current ICP monitoring methods are invasive, requiring probes in the brain parenchyma or ventricles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare central retinal vein pressure with simultaneously recorded intracranial pressure.
- To evaluate the potential of ophthalmodynamometry for estimating ICP.
Main Methods:
- Simultaneous recording of central retinal vein pressure and ICP in 31 patients.
- Utilizing ophthalmodynamometry (ODM) for pressure measurements.
Main Results:
- A strong linear correlation (r = 0.968) was found between central retinal vein pressure and ICP.
- Ophthalmodynamometry demonstrated utility for momentary ICP assessment.
Conclusions:
- Central retinal vein pressure provides a valuable, non-invasive indicator of ICP.
- Ophthalmodynamometry offers a repeatable, practical method for assessing elevated ICP in specific clinical scenarios.
- This technique is not suitable for continuous ICP monitoring.